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Walking in Spain - Alicante
Mountains
SPAIN - TRIP CODE WWA
WALKING AND TREKKING
Why book this trip?
Based in the heart of the Alicante Mountains, this centre-based walking holiday explores the quiet
mountain trails of a surprisingly little-visited inland area. Enjoy a variety of walks along ridge lines above
olive and orange groves, through canyons and tranquil mountain meadows.
Off season Spain - With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the climate is ideal for an early spring or
autumn escape
Ancient trails - Follow in the footsteps of the Moors to discover hilltop castles
Malla de Llop - One of the most spectacular ridge walks in the area
16/11/2020 12:00:53
I N C LU D E D TR I P STA F F TR A N SPO R T A C C O M M O D ATI O N WA LKI N G G R O U P SI ZE :
M E A LS Explore Tour Bus 7 nights GRADE: 10 - 16
Breakfast: 7 Leader comfortable hotel Moderate
Itinerary
Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.
DAY 1 - Join the trip at Alicante Airport and drive to Castell de Castells
Our trip begins at Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) at 12pm. If you would like to join the complimentary
airport transfer today, the latest your flight can arrive is 11.15am. We will travel together as a group to
the peaceful village of Castell de Castells, surrounded by rugged limestone mountains.
With more than 300 days of sunshine a year and mild sunny winters, this region is one of the best spots in
Western Europe for year-round walking on quiet trails. The Alicante Mountains are at their best during
the late autumn and early spring when they are covered in wildflowers and blossom.
A C C O M M O D ATI O N :
Hotel Rural Serella (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
SI N G LE R O O M AVA I LA B LE
M E A LS PR O V I D E D : N O N E
16/11/2020 12:00:53DAY 2 - Circular walk to Moorish castle ruins and along the ridges of the Sierra de Serella Today we take a circular walk from our hotel into the Sierra de Serrella. We walk through olive and almond groves to the ruins of Serrella Castle. The ruins are hard to see from below, revealing themselves as we ascend on a winding mountain path to the square tower on the summit - affording spectacular views across the mountain ranges of the entire region. The castle dates back to the battles between the Christians and the Moors, it was one of the last Moorish strongholds until the Christian conquest in 1254. We continue along the slopes of the Sierra de Serrella which afford stunning views across the neighbouring peaks and mountains. Today's 15 kilometre walk is expected to take approximately six hours with a total ascent and descent of 640 metres. A C C O M M O D ATI O N : Hotel Rural Serella (or similar) Grade: Comfortable Hotel SI N G LE R O O M AVA I LA B LE M E A LS PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST DAY 3 - Walk through the dramatic Malafi Canyon and see prehistoric rock paintings After breakfast we drive to the isolated village of Tollos, from where we descend through olive orchards to enter the Malafí Canyon. The landscape is dominated by large protruding rock faces, limestone peaks and vertically-sided quarries. This dry ravine is home to one of the best examples of late prehistoric rock art on the Iberian Peninsular. Discovered in 1980, the Sanctuary of Pla de Petracos site has eight shallow rock shelters, five of which show paintings in red of both animals and human figures. We continue along an undulating cobbled road back to the hotel. Today's 17 kilometre walk is expected to take approximately six hours with a total ascent of 300 metres and descent of 600 metres A C C O M M O D ATI O N : Hotel Rural Serella (or similar) Grade: Comfortable Hotel 16/11/2020 12:00:53
SI N G LE R O O M AVA I LA B LE M E A LS PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST DAY 4 - Walk into Barranc de I’Infern (Hell’s Canyon) taking the ancient steps cut into the hillside Our circular walk today begins from Fleix taking the ancient Vall de Laguar highway, a stepped path built in medieval times by the Moors to connect the three villages of Campell, Fleix and Benimaurell. This area was the last hideout of the remaining Moors in Spain before they got evicted from here in 1609. There are over 6,000 steps carved into the mountainside which we descend and ascend, following in the footsteps of the Moors. We walk into the Barranc de I'Infern (Hells Canyon) and along the dry river bed of this narrow ravine. In spring time the area is carpeted in wildflowers, herbs (rosemary and thyme) and poppies. Today's 12.5 kilometre walk is expected to take approximately six hours with a total ascent and descent of 800 metres. A C C O M M O D ATI O N : Hotel Rural Serella (or similar) Grade: Comfortable Hotel SI N G LE R O O M AVA I LA B LE M E A LS PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST DAY 5 - Free day. Opportunity to go to the coast or explore the local area further Today has been left free. There is an optional half day walk available, the Alcala Circuit which is 10 kilometres with a local lunch of arroz al horno (Spanish rice dish) or alternative short walks from the hotel. There is also the opportunity to head to the coast for a dip in the Mediterranean. Denia beach is approximately an hour's drive away where you could combine some relaxing on the sandy beach with a coastal walk. 16/11/2020 12:00:53
A C C O M M O D ATI O N :
Hotel Rural Serella (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
SI N G LE R O O M AVA I LA B LE
M E A LS PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
DAY 6 - Walk across the Contador Pass and around Carrascal Peak, views across the Sierra
Aitana
Today we drive south to walk across the Contador pass. We take a spectacular circular trail around
Carrascal peak with views across to the Puig Campana summit and the Sierra Aitana. Puig Campana
(1,410m) is the second highest peak in the region with impressive rock walls. The trail descends through
pine forest.
In the evenings you can enjoy local dishes and wine on offer at the hotel or in the small selection of
restaurants/bars in Castell de Castells. The food of this area is influenced by the Moorish, Islamic culture
including; couscous, Puchero (stews) and aromatic herbs.
Today's 12 kilometre walk is expected to take approximately four-and-a-half hours with a total ascent
and descent of 570 metres .
A C C O M M O D ATI O N :
Hotel Rural Serella (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
SI N G LE R O O M AVA I LA B LE
M E A LS PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
DAY 7 - Ascend to the Malla de Llop summit with views to the coast
This morning we take a short drive to Famorca and walk the spectacular Malla de Llop Ridge. Following
16/11/2020 12:00:53the path past water houses we ascend to the Nevara (stone ice house) and continue to the col overlooking
Pla de la Casa. Walking along the Malla de Llop ridge the views across the Guadalest valley are superb.
Descending back to the hotel we walk down through the Barranco de la Canal with views over Castell de
Castells.
Today's 13 kilometre walk is expected to take approximately four-and-a-half hours with a total ascent of
750 metres and descent of 900 metres. The walk itself is not difficult but along the ridge there is a short
5-10 minute section on rough ground to drop down to the top of the canal.
A C C O M M O D ATI O N :
Hotel Rural Serella (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Hotel
SI N G LE R O O M AVA I LA B LE
M E A LS PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
DAY 8 - Drive to Alicante Airport where the trip ends
We leave the mountains behind this morning, driving back to Alicante Airport where the trip ends.
We will travel as a group, leaving our hotel at around 7.30am for the one-and-a-half hours' drive back to
Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC). The earliest your flight can depart is 11am.
M E A LS PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
Trip information
Climate and country information
Spain
16/11/2020 12:00:53Climate
Overall, spring, early summer and autumn are ideal times for a Spanish trip - though the weather
varies enormously from region to region. The high central plains suffer from fierce extremes, stiflingly
hot in summer, bitterly cold and swept by freezing winds in winter. The Atlantic coast, in contrast, has
a tendency to damp and mist, and a relatively brief, humid summer. The Mediterranean south is warm
virtually all year round. Spain's Islands the Canaries and Balaerics experience very mild winters and
warm summers making them ideal year round destinations.
Time difference to GMT Plugs Religion
+8 (PCT) 2 Pin Round Roman Catholic
Language
Castilian Spanish, Catalan, Galician, Basque
Budgeting and packing
Optional activities
The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated
costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may
depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were
originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities
are booked and paid for direct with the supplier and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.
Taxi to Denia beach - Cost depends on numbers (€20-35 p.p.)
Alcala Cicruit walk - €30 including transport and lunch
Castell de Castell museum - €3 entrance fee
Clothing
Bring light and comfortable clothing that can be layered according to the temperature. The weather
conditions in the mountains can be changeable, and it can become windy and cool, especially at night, so
bring warmer layers. Tops made from wicking materials which keep you drier, a warmer fleece is
recommended as a mid layer, and walking trousers are preferable to trousers of heavier material such as
jeans.
-Breathable wind and waterproof jacket
-T-shirts
-Long sleeved tops
-Sunhat
-Long trousers
-Shorts (if you prefer to walk in them)
-Swimwear and towel
-Midlayer Fleece/pullover
-Socks (liner and thicker pair)
Footwear
We recommend you bring well-worn in walking boots with good tred- leather or fabric are both fine. In
16/11/2020 12:00:53addition please take comfortable trainershoes or sandals for the evenings. We suggest that on
international flights you either carry your walking boots in your hand luggage or wear them - should your
luggage be lost or delayed, your own boots are the one thing that will be irreplaceable.
Luggage
20kg
Luggage: On tour
Bring one main piece of luggage and a 20-30 litre day sack is recommended. You will need to carry what
you need for the day which may include a raincoat, jumper, camera, sun-cream, water and picnic lunch.
On hot days you will carry fewer clothes but more drinking water.
Equipment
-Sunglasses
-Sun cream
-Small Torch (with spare batteries and bulb)
-Camera
-Walking poles (if you usually use them)
-Personal toiletries
-Personal first aid kit - On each walk a first aid kit is carried but you should have your own blister kit,
supply of plasters, aspirin and other essentials.
-Insect repellent
-Small waterproof dry bag (for items such as your mobile phone)
-Reusable water bottle (minimum 1 litre) - Get 15% discount on a Water-to-Go bottle
www.explore.co.uk/about-us/responsible-travel/water-to-go-discount-with-explore
-Lunch bag/Tupperware (for packed lunches)
Tipping
Explore leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. You may
however, want to recognise a leader that has done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them
a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It is a tricky one, and down to personal
preference, but we would recommend £15 to £20 per person per week as a guideline.
Local crew
Although voluntary, tipping is a recognised part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will
look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. Accordingly, you
should allow approximately £20 of local c urrency for tipping. In order to make things easier for you, the
Explore Leader may organise a group's tips kitty and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout
the trip. 10% is recommended at meal times.
Spain
Food and drink
The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses
16/11/2020 12:00:53eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track
may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may
charge more.
Lunch price Dinner price Beer price
£8.00 - 12.00 £16.00 - 20.00 £1.50 - 3.50 (depending on the region/area in Spain)
Water price
£1.4
Foreign Exchange
Local currency Recommended Currency For Exchange
Euros We recommend you take the majority of your spending money in Euros cash.
Where To Exchange
We recommend that you change any currency into Euros prior to arrival. Bureau de Change are
generally only found in major cities and large airports.
ATM Availability
In cities and most major towns.
Credit Card Acceptance
Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted in larger restaurants and some shops.
Travellers Cheques
Not recommended.
Transport, Accommodation & Meals
Transport Information
Bus
Accommodation notes
The welcoming Hotel Rural Serrella is located in the scenic village of Castell de Castells. The en suite
rooms are comfortable furnished and in typical simple Spanish décor with tiled floors, they vary in size
and layout. Some rooms also have a balcony and some have a sofa and small kitchen, the rooms are
allocated on a run of house basis. The hotel features a bar, terrace and small spa, and restaurant serving
authentic food of the region. With views of the surrounding mountains, it is an ideal base for a week's
walking.
Essential Information
Government Travel Safety Advice
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information
16/11/2020 12:00:53and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and
customs. For UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice click here.
For more information from Explore about travel advice, click here
Under 18 immigration guidance
Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under
18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if
this applies to your party.
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the
circumstances. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing
information.Booking Conditions
Visa and Passport Information
Spain: Visas are not required by UK, Australian, New Zealand, US and Canadian citizens. Other
nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.
If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's
recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa
application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa
through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa
applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity
for your chosen destination.
Booking conditions
Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and
Booking Conditions.
Transfers
Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.
Booking a land only package with Explore
Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you
have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements.
Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information.
You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.
Joining Tour Abroad
Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and
depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from
the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending
point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have
selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the
16/11/2020 12:00:53joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.
The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at
the designated airport or train station.
Free transfers are not available for Self-Guided, Polar, Tailormade or Tours for Churches customers.
If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the
joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at
an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.
For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here
Insurance
It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your
responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full
terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you
intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully
cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your
policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the
entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper
altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will
exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an
additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full
amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and
repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the
United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.
Flight information
Explore offers a wide range of flexible flying options to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read
more about them here.
Flight Information
You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive
package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.
Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore
We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK
allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our
dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.
On our website we display a UK flight inclusive package guide price which is generally based on a London
departure. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend
booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.
Maximum altitude (m)
1218
Spain
Vaccinations
16/11/2020 12:00:53Nothing compulsory but Tetanus is usually recommended as a precaution. Please check the latest
requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list.
Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS
and NaTHNaC links at Explore Travel Health and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and
vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before traveling.
Walking and Trekking information
Walking grade
Moderate
Trek details
Walks on 5 days for between 3.5 to 6 hours. Follow mountain trails and mule tracks, hilly terrain.
Max walking altitude (m)
1218
Additional Information
16/11/2020 12:00:54Why book this trip
Based in the heart of the Alicante Mountains, this centre-based walking holiday explores the
quiet mountain trails of a surprisingly little-visited inland area. On walks directly from the
hotel in Castell de Castells, discover the influence the Moors had on the region and see
spectacular wildflowers and blossom.
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